Behind the Design
Hot contract trends sure to come home
By Susan Pantaleo, ASID -- Furniture Today, July 23, 2007
Summer in Chicago was hotter than ever, thanks to the designs presented at the 39th annual Neocon show in June. Every square foot of exhibit space at The Merchandise Mart was sold out and packed tight with people from all over the world. Attendance totaled 52,632 with more than 1.200 exhibitors. Neocon is known as the launching pad for new products in the commercial/contract furnishings industry, but many of this year's introductions also are suitable for residential interiors.
Here are the top trends that will cross over and influence residential design.
Style stars
Stylized modern leads in shape and pattern in today's contract furnishings. Sleek lines and clean silhouettes are the dominant direction. However, a distinct counter trend plays on natural and organic motifs and patterns. Furniture often has a sculptural quality and is multifunctional. This is a perfect fit for our residential interiors that now demand flexibility for a fast-paced lifestyle.
Innovation in materials
Go ahead, spill the grape juice. Contract fabrics are known for their durability and low maintenance. Homeowners are demanding the same performance for their family room. Crypton, one of the super fabrics, has been licensed by 12 U.S. mills. Architext, Kravet and Robert Allen are just a few of the companies where you can see upholstery and drapery fabric with a residential feel.
True greening
You couldn't miss the impact of the green movement at Neocon. Even companies with minor contributions prominently displayed their efforts, and more companies supported green in the true sense of the word, not as a mere marketing tool. Many are embracing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design guidelines and making improvements that will extend product lifecycles. The carpeting industry has been the most aggressive with their Cradle to Cradle certifications for contract and residential.
Reds and pinks and Mangos — Oh, my!
The line is blurred when it comes to residential vs. contract color trends. It's difficult to tell who is leading the way. Bright colors were featured at Neocon, tamed with earthtones from the brown and gray family. Yellow continues to be a nice surprise when used in small doses. Finishes play an important role in how a color is perceived. Shine and sparkle from metallics are balanced against plush textures for our visual pleasure.
